There are a variety of reasons your double-glazed windows could require repairs including condensation between panes to draughts and dropped or sagged frames. The majority of these issues can be resolved.
If your window or door is difficult to open, consider oiling the hinges, the mechanism and handles. window repairs is usually a low-cost, short-term fix.
Broken Panes
When a window pane breaks it loses its insulating properties and can create draft. If the muntins that divide the glass panes are broken, moisture can leak between them causing condensation, mould or mildew. This will make your home less energy-efficient. A damaged window should be repaired by an expert to ensure that you get the correct seal and maximum energy efficiency.
In the beginning, you'll have to take the broken glass off. Begin by placing a protective drop cloth beneath the broken window and then cutting around the edges of the pane with an inexpensive glass cutter (available in a majority of hardware stores). It's worth lubricating this tool's cutter with light oil prior to when you begin. This will prevent the glass from shattering too easily. Then, you can use the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the pieces and they should fall away fairly quickly.
Scrape any old glazing compound out of the recess of the frame after the glass has been removed. This will reveal the glazier's points and metal clips that hold the pane in place. If there's any sign of corrosion, these clips should be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood the glazier's gilder's points can be used again if they're in good condition.
The surface of the remaining frame must be prepared for the re-glazing. With a caulking gun apply a continuous ribbon of compound around the inside edge of the recess. Make use of a premium putty, such as a glaziers compound in cartridge. Dry it out before reinstalling the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, they should be reinstalled too. Install the dividers.
Condensation
Condensation is one of the most common issues that double-glazed windows face, especially in the winter months. It's usually caused by excessive humidity in the home where warm air collides with cold glass, which condenses into water droplets and settles in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can prevent this from happening by opening your windows more frequently and enhancing ventilation by installing extractor fans, and utilizing dehumidifiers. If condensation remains an issue, it's crucial to get a professional to get to the root of the issue. You can then fix or replace your windows when needed.
It's also important to remember that condensation on a double-glazed window can be an indication of a failing seal. The vacuum seal applied at the factory could wear away over time and allow cool air to pass between the panes. This can lead to fogging of the window and eventually mold growth if it is not addressed promptly enough.
A hairdryer can be used to eliminate excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should be used only as a last option. If the condensation has been allowed to sit for too long, you might be facing dampness or even mould within your home, which must be addressed by a specialist.
As a long-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows repaired by professionals. They will remove the affected glass pane, clean the gap and pipe hot air into the space to dry out any moisture. In this process, they'll check for damage, mildew or mould growth and carry out an draught-proofing procedure to ensure your windows are efficient and energy efficient again.
Draughts
As time passes, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass insulated can break down and this can create a draught in space between the two panes. It's a simple fix to replace the gaskets, which will result in an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and cooler air outside. You can save money on your energy bills.
Double glazing that is misted may be an indication of blown seals. The unit is comprised of two panes of glass that are separated by a spacer bar to create an insulating gap and then filled with gas, such as argon to make the window airtight. If the seal has been blown it will allow water vapour to get into your space through the gap, which will cause condensation between the panes that is not able to be cleaned off.
This is a simple issue to fix and windows can be quickly replaced by experts using the appropriate tools. The expert will employ tools designed to push the new seals into position and this is normally quicker than attempting to do it by hand. These tools feature a pointed tip that can be used to push the seals into corners.
A professional may be able'reseal your windows by drilling a small gap in the window, and then adding a desiccant or putty. This can be a more cost-effective solution than replacements and will give you an effective draught-proofing solution for your double glazing.
Faulty Hinges
Misted double glazing is a common problem that many people experience. It can be caused by a broken seal, or a crack in the glass or a problem with the mechanism or frame. It is possible to resolve this issue. This typically involves making a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts and leaks from occurring.
As soon as you notice any problems, you should contact the company that sold you the windows. You should inform the company in writing and demand confirmation that they have received your notice. If there is a dispute being resolved, writing everything down will help you prove your claim.
In some instances an expert in window repair will cut the hole in your windows to draw out moisture and create the new seal. However, this is usually only a temporary fix and will not prevent the return of moisture. Alternatively, it may be possible to replace the glass unit, which will ensure that it is watertight.
Be aware that you should only attempt DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are sufficient. Super glue or other DIY solutions can result in more long-term damage. If you are unsure of what to do, it's always recommended to seek professional advice. You can find a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repairs by typing your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and checked and you can trust that they will provide you with a top quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, also known as gas fills, are what hold double glazed windows in place. They can be damaged by various factors, including weather conditions, age, and power washing. It is crucial to know the symptoms and how to fix them.
If a window seal is damaged, humid air can seep between the two panes glass, causing fog. This is a frequent issue that can cause the window appear disfigured. Once the seal fails, any argon or other inert gas is removed from the glass, further reducing its insulating properties.
A professional glazier can repair a damaged window seal with a brand new one. However, this is costly and might not resolve the fog problem entirely. Some companies offer defogging which involves placing an air pump inside the window frame in order to eliminate moisture and clear the glass. However this method isn't foolproof and doesn't replace any inert gases, meaning that the fog may return.
If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier may replace it. This is usually the most cost-effective option, and is a great option in the event you're looking for the long-term solution. It is recommended to choose a firm that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any issues are covered. This way, you can rest sure that you'll get maximum value for your investment. Alternatively, you can try to avoid this issue by choosing a premium window and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will extend the life of the window and reduce the amount of repairs.
